There’s nothing better than cozying up with a warm cup of tea during cold winter months. With plenty of health benefits and varieties, the hardest part is choosing! We’ve broken down some options for you below.
One overall tip – the more tea is processed, the more its health benefits are diminished. Try steeping your own tea to stay in control of added sugars. Instant tea is a fine option, but always check the ingredients!
4 Popular Teas and Their Health Benefits:
Green Tea: An excellent choice for those looking for anti-inflammatory options and alternatives to morning coffee. Start your mornings with a cup of green tea for more natural caffeine and antioxidants. Another option is matcha, which is a finely ground powder made from high-quality green tea leaves – in addition to having more caffeine than regular green tea, this is an excellent “superfood” option that’s rich in antioxidants and helps reduce blood pressure and improve blood sugar regulation.
Chamomile Tea: An herbal, caffeine-free option to sip before bedtime, chamomile tea is also rich in antioxidants and can help ease nerve, kidney, or vision issues. It also has soothing properties and can be helpful in staving off stress and depression – perfect for those navigating seasonal depression on cold winter nights.
Peppermint Tea: Mostly helpful in terms of easing indigestion, stomach cramps, and bloating, since peppermint relaxes the digestive tract and helps move gas through the body. Peppermint tea can also be used in fighting seasonal allergies and congestion, since menthol aids in breaking up loose mucous in the lungs.
Rosehip Tea: An excellent boost to your immune system! With plenty of vitamin C and anti-bacterial, anti-viral properties, rosehip is a great option for ensuring that you’re staying healthy during the cold season (and the pandemic!) Rosehip tea also has anti-aging properties and can help renew skin cells and promote skin hydration.